I have always loved the magic of the holiday season, from being that wide-eyed kid discovering presents under the tree to building new holiday traditions with family and friends over the years ... the magic of this festive season has never faded. It is truly one of my favorite times of year. Seattle has always been my home, and I have celebrated every Christmas in my hometown. After a busy year of theatre and photography, I decided to treat myself and experience the magic of the holidays in New York City. I have visited New York many times over the years, but never during the holidays. I dreamed of spending Christmas in New York, and every holiday film set in Manhattan prepared me well for the experience ... well, almost.

Walking around Manhattan, it is still unmistakably New York. The smell of hot dogs drifts on every street corner. Taxi horns echo among tall buildings. The sidewalks pulse with constant movement. But at Christmas, this hard edge softens just enough. There is a warmth layered beneath the noise. Families wander through Central Park, pausing for photos beneath bare winter trees. Children gape wide-eyed at glowing department store windows filled with Christmas wonder. Even New Yorkers, complaining about life, end their conversations cheerfully wishing each other a Merry Christmas.

Every time I visit New York, there are many things I always look forward to experiencing, from Broadway shows that remind me why live storytelling matters to quiet early morning walks through Central Park as the city slowly awakes. Every visit, I plan time for a walk on the High Line to the Chelsea Market for a delicious lunch, to have a late-night slice in Hell's Kitchen as I watch the nighttime vibe of the city, and to intentionally getting lost in neighborhoods to discover new things in this endless city of sights, smells and sounds.

This past week allowed me to reconnect with friends, witness some incredible and thought-provoking Broadway shows, wandered holiday markets, and immerse myself in the enchanting lights, songs, and the vibe of Christmas in Manhattan. Although I had anticipated the crowds, I was astounded by the sheer number of people from all over the world who shared my enthusiasm. Despite the bustling atmosphere and everyone capturing their own memories, it was truly remarkable to witness the thousands of lights adorning the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, experience the Radio City Rockettes celebrate 100 years of their Holiday Spectacular, take a moment of reflection in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and stroll through the festive market in Bryant Park.

New York at Christmas reminds me why I travel. Not just to see places, but to feel and experience them. To slow down in the middle of the noise. To notice the quiet joy tucked between the chaos. Even in a city that never stops moving, there is room for holiday magic amidst the New York chaos.

Christmas Under Manhattan Lights

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